Former Tide DT Dee Liner ‘lost the love for the game’ at Alabama

Former Alabama defensive tackle Dee Liner admits lack of playing time at Alabama wasn’t the only reason he left Tuscaloosa. He eventually fell out of love with football after being relegated as a third-stringer — a situation made apparent by his decision to transfer to Arkansas State last April.

Liner, via Matt Zenitz of al.com, said he “really lost the love for the game of football just knowing that I wasn’t going to get in come Saturday.”

Liner, the No. 4 defensive tackle prospect in the Class of 2013, wasn’t used to watching from the sidelines while stalwarts such as Jarran Reed and A’Shawn Robinson got significantly more playing time. He played in one game as a freshman, and three as a sophomore.

He said he feels much happier at Arkansas State, where he feels he has a chance to make an impact next season after sitting out 2015.

His coaches have said as much as well, coming away impressed with him in the spring; they say he has a chance at competing for a starting position.

Regardless, Liner said the Red Wolves can expect “a dominant player” come fall, and is finally happy for the chance to prove it.